Spherical Self-Propelled Device Portal Axle Biasing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing remotely controllable self-propelled devices lack an effective biasing mechanism that ensures reliable propulsion and efficient payload space utilization, particularly in spherical designs.
Innovation Solution
A self-propelled device with a spherical housing and a drive system, incorporating a biasing mechanism that includes a pair of portal axles with springs to actively engage the inner surface, allowing continuous propulsion and increased payload space, enabling the carriage of various payloads such as cameras, sensors, and explosives.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional biasing mechanism is used in a spherical self-propelled device, then the structure is simpler, but the propulsion reliability is reduced and payload space is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The biasing mechanism is segmented into multiple independent portal axles (typically three), each with its own spring assembly. This segmentation allows each axle to independently engage with the inner spherical surface, providing distributed propulsion force and improving overall reliability while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The portal axles are merged with the drive system such that they serve dual functions: as structural support elements and as active propulsion components. The springs on the portal axles combine biasing force with drive engagement, merging the biasing mechanism with the propulsion system to achieve reliable continuous propulsion without adding excessive complexity
2Volume of stationary object
If a traditional biasing mechanism is used in a spherical self-propelled device, then the device complexity is lower, but the payload space is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The portal axles are positioned at strategic locations around the sphere's interior, segmenting the space efficiently. This arrangement allows the biasing mechanism components to be distributed along the perimeter, leaving the central region open and maximizing the payload space in the middle of the spherical device
Solution Approach 2:
The portal axles engage with the inner spherical surface in a three-dimensional arrangement, utilizing the radial dimension for propulsion while preserving the central volumetric space for payloads. This dimensional utilization allows the biasing mechanism to operate effectively without occupying valuable central payload volume
3Adaptability or versatility
If a spherical design is used, then the device can carry various payloads, but the propulsion mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The portal axles with springs serve multiple functions simultaneously: providing biasing force, engaging the inner spherical surface for propulsion, and supporting the drive system components. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining the spherical design's payload versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The portal axles are designed to dynamically adjust their engagement with the inner spherical surface based on the device's orientation and motion state. This dynamic adaptation allows the drive system to maintain effective propulsion across various configurations and payload arrangements without requiring complex mechanical adjustments
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides reliable and efficient propulsion and expanded payload capacity, allowing for versatile civilian and military applications, including remote surveillance and payload deployment.
Implementation Method 1
The biasing mechanism can include a pair of portal axles with springs to actively engage the inner surface
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed are a multi-purpose self-propelled device and method for operation of the self-propelled device. Certain variations can include a spherical housing having an internal drive system and a multifunctional payload space for use in a variety of applications.